Korean Air signalled its plans to expand its network in Europe after the earlier launch of its freight services to Budapest, Hungary in 2020.

The announcement comes as the South Korean flag carrier said it is launching its inaugural passenger flight to Budapest on October 3 to be operated in a 269-seat Boeing 787-900.

The once-a-week service departs on Mondays from Seoul. The return flight leaves the next day.

From October 31, Korean Air said it will offer flights twice a week that depart from Seoul Incheon on Mondays and Saturdays and returning flights will take off on the same day.

"Following the launch of cargo services to Budapest in February 2020, Korean Air plans to bolster the competitiveness of its European network, especially in Eastern Europe," Korean Air said.

It noted that Budapest is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history and beautiful landscapes but is also a demand destination for businesses.

Meanwhile, Korean Air announced that it is also resuming routes to Dubai from October 1 and services to Phuket and Chiang Mai in Thailand.

The carrier said it would continue closely monitoring the market and demand return, and reinstate the remaining suspended routes accordingly.